6 Energising Yoga Moves To Help Kickstart A New Day

Yoga is becoming more popular each day. The word yoga comes from Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language and refers to the union of mind and spirit. It began in Indian more than 3000 years ago and is still practiced today for health of mind, body and spirit.

Cat Cow Pose – This is a great morning stretch for your back, this yoga position helps to open the whole spine. For this yoga pose you should get down on all fours, and whilst staring at the ceiling drop your back down towards the floor as you inhale, then whilst looking down at your belly button arch your back up like a cat and exhale.

Downward Dog – If you have a dog, or have ever seen a dog stretch then you know how the Downward Dog has got it’s name. This is a standard yoga pose starting on your hands and knees, with your knees directly below your hips and your hands slightly forward of your shoulders. Press back lifting your knees away from the floor whilst keeping your arms straight lifting your tailbone.

Warrior One – This is the standing position that signifies strength and power. Start by standing up straight, then step your left leg back 4 feet. Bend your right knee ensuring it’s directly above the ankle, turning your left foot in slightly. Raise your arms directly above your head, reaching strongly and look up.

Extended Side Angle – Another standing yoga position, which improves strength, flexibility and posture. This pose is particularly good to stretch the side of your body as well as your legs. Again for this pose move your left foot 4 feet to the side, but this time turn your torso sideways also. One arm should be pointing to the ceiling with the head looking upward. Try and hold for a minute then switch sides.

Camel – The camel pose frees energy in your throat, chest and heart. You should start in a kneeling position. The upper torso is gradually bent backward, until the arms are extended backwards with the hands touching the soles of your feet and your head is completely extended. Hold for 30 secs to a minute.